Tribe breaks ground on Elders Facility

Observer Staff

7/5/2006 12:00:00 AM

The Elders Facility groundbreaking ceremony on June 9 brought a dream to fruition.

For some, the event signified reaching a long anticipated goal of providing homes for Tribal Elders who require daily support in living a full, active, healthy and social life.

But for others, the day symbolized a future of safe, worry-free living to enjoy the autumn phase of one's life cycle.

"Our mission as set forth in our foundation statements is to provide a multipurpose senior facility that will be a supportive network, which anticipates, identifies and, meets the needs of our older Tribal citizens," explained Senior Program Director Lisa Kennedy.

"As service providers we will strive to promote the independence of our Elders to live healthy and active lives to the extent of their capacity."

The 64,000-square-foot facility will be located on Leaton Road, near the woods.

Construction on the 32 assisted living units and eight dementia studio units is currently underway to date.

"I have had the honor to work with several Tribal Councils and Elder Advisory Board members over the last few years to make this facility a reality," added Kennedy. "Their leadership and wisdom has guided my efforts in the creation of a top-notch continuum of care senior facility."

Assisted living units boast over 900-square-feet of living space with one master bedroom and den, kitchen and living room. Laundry and house keeping services will be available depending on the required level of care and individualized per client nee..

There will be around-the-clock staffing to provide for personal care, medications, meals and activities.

Elders with dementia or Alzheimer's Disease will have more intense nursing, as well as indoor and outdoor walking gardens.

Program services will continue to include transportation, case management, snow/lawn maintenance for the entire service population of the Senior Program, which is District 1 Tribal Elders who are 50 years of age and older.

"Our Tribal Member Elders are the keepers of our traditions, culture, and history," said Kennedy. "They are our most valuable and natural leaders of our community, and this facility is a tribute to those who are still with us today and those we have lost over the years."